American Sign Language Studies, B.A.

Program Overview

This ASL Studies program fosters proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) and a deep understanding of Deaf Culture. Students develop essential ASL skills and analyze its linguistic features, while gaining sensitivity towards diverse Deaf communities. The program provides a solid foundation for pursuing advanced education or careers that utilize ASL, empowering students to contribute to the field and promote accessibility for the Deaf community.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Mission: To create and transmit knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) in a climate that promotes respect for Deaf Culture, Deaf History, and Deaf Communities.
• Learning Outcomes:
• Demonstrate the ability to express and comprehend ASL.
• Portray the ability to recognize and analyze ASL linguistics features.
• Practice sensitivity and understanding toward diverse Deaf communities.
• Develop foundational skills suitable for pursuing higher education and careers that use ASL.

Outline:

• Major Prerequisites:
• ASL 101 American Sign Language I (3-4 credits)
• ASL 102 American Sign Language II (3-4 credits)
• ASL 103 American Sign Language III (3-4 credits)
• ASL 201 American Sign Language IV (4 credits)
• ASL 202 American Sign Language V (4 credits)
• ASL 203 American Sign Language VI (4 credits)
• LING 310 Introduction to Linguistics (4 credits)
• Note: ASL Studies majors must have a grade of C or better in courses that are used to satisfy the major requirement.
Students entering ASL 301 must pass ASL 203 with a B- or above.
• * Must be taken in numerical order
• Core Courses:
• ASL 205 Introduction to ASL Studies (3 credits)
• ASL 301 American Sign Language VII (4 credits)
• ASL 302 American Sign Language VIII (4 credits)
• ASL 303 American Sign Language IX (4 credits)
• ASL 315 American Deaf Culture (3 credits)
• ASL 330 Special Topics in American Sign Language (4 credits)
• ASL 353 Linguistics of ASL (4 credits)
• ASL 413 American Sign Language Cherology/Phonology (3 credits)
• ASL 414 American Sign Language Morphology (3 credits)
• ASL 415 American Sign Language Syntax and Semantics (3 credits)
• ASL 420 Sociolinguistics of Deaf Communities (3 credits)
• ASL 456 First and Second Language Acquisition: Deaf and Hard of Hearing (3 credits)
• Elective Credits: 20 credits from any ASL prefix courses or other electives approved by ASL Studies major advisor.
• Total Credits: 85-88